Sigh
By Lori Harpell
3/25/2024

Feeling like a deflated
balloon,
Swirling in a dirty gutter…

Hazel is confused,
Bob is worn out…

Bathroom to recliner,
Recliner to bathroom…

Hours resting with closed eyes,
Listening to the quiet sounds
outside…

A bed bath,
A hair brushing…

How can that be so
exhausting,
So wearing…
Two voices at once,

Nope not computing…

Eye sight wonky,
When might it come back…

Could my digestive system level out,
How much yogurt can a person eat…

Reading is too hard, Light too bright
and no comprehension…

Distraction is key,
Replay life in my head…

Nope,
That’s too sad…

Think of items from each letter of the
alphabet, Quince and zebra for the
win…
Recline in the dark bedroom,
Listen to a show Bob is
watching…

Imagine meeting people someday,

Facebook friends that are true deep
friends…

Thankful for technology,
Thankful I’m not alone…
Rest and wait,
Rest and wait…

Rest and wait,
Rest and wait…

Rest and wait,
Rest and wait…

Rest and wait,
Rest and wait…

Rest and wait,
Rest and wait…


This essay was submitted as part of the Reflections of ME/CFS, FM, and Long COVID Awareness Day Virtual Event on May 14th, 2024.